Category Archive: Career Building

In this post, we’re going to discuss 7 tips for maintaining a professional attitude at work. Sometimes, maintaining that attitude at work is very difficult indeed. While it may be temporarily satisfying to tell someone what you really think in the heat of the moment, it is not necessarily in your best interest to do so.

I’ve probably made every single one of these mistakes in my younger years and some of them are pretty cringe-worthy. I hope that they will save you some of the pain and embarrassment that I went through.

7 Tips for Maintaining a Professional Attitude at Work

Email, Phone Calls, Voice Mail, and Text Messages are not an instant form of communication and do not have to be answered immediately. Sometimes it is best to craft your answer, and wait 24 hours before sending it. I have found that turning off notifications for emails, and sticking to a strict schedule for checking them keeps me sane, as I now get over 200 emails per day on just one of my accounts. You can spend literally all of your time managing emails, texts, and phone calls if you’re not careful. Don’t allow them to consume every single second of your time. Making sure you craft your answers, especially when you have a tough answer, can be a huge win in your job.

If someone asks you for an answer, ask to think it over, and let them know you will get back to them, within X amount of time. Most things that require analysis don’t require an instant answer. Too often I’ve felt pressured to say “yes” to something that was not in my (or the company’s) best interest. By taking some time to think it over, mull the numbers, and really contemplate it, I’ve saved myself countless hours of aggravation.

Bite your tongue. If someone makes an outrageous comment, it may be best to let it slide, and come back to it later, when you’re in a more calm frame of mind. Sometimes things are best left alone entirely. You don’t want to be the person who flies off the handle for every single thing, whether perceived or imagined.

There is absolutely NO place for violence in the workplace. Be careful to maintain that workplace “mask” in place. Do not swing things, or hit your hand with your pen, or otherwise demonstrate aggression physically. Make a point of leaving the situation at the earliest opportunity. Do.not.engage. I once went into a meeting that was politically charged, and one of the guys(Who was 6’5″ and 250LBS) sat there and swung a golf club into his hand smacking it over and over again. It was a very intimidating move, and was completely inappropriate.

Be aware of your body’s demands. This means, if you are about to head into a long meeting, and you have not eaten, eat a handful of protein. Avoid sugar lows. Make sure to use the restroom. Make sure you are well rested. It is much harder to react appropriately to a situation when you are tired, cranky, and otherwise irritable from easily remedied issues. I can’t tell you how many people I’ve seen melt down, or make themselves miserable because they didn’t eat, didn’t use the restroom, etc.

Let some things slide. In today’s American Society, there can be the temptation to get HR involved in every situation, and consider lawsuits for every infraction, real or imagined. Realize that for every time you make a report to HR, you are creating a reputation for yourself. You must decide if it is worth the cost. Thus, there are some times when things should simply be allowed to slide, as they are harmless. Some things should be called, and handled sternly, but you don’t want to create a situation where you are perceived to be the problem child.

Remind yourself that many times the offense is in the mind of the person offended. It is possible and even likely that absolutely no offense was intended by the other party. Ask yourself if you think that the offense was intentional. I think that in most cases, the answer is an honest “no”.

And one bonus tip: Make sure that you are dressed work-place appropriate. If you get to wear shorts, fabulous, but they need to be relatively modest. Unless you are in a profession that requires it, cleavage should be modest, and skirts should cover your ASSets. Be aware of the image you’re portraying. Dressing up for work is not the same thing as dressing up for an evening on the town.

It has been said that the easy road becomes hard, and the hard one becomes easier over time. For example, this is something that an engineer knows because of work and school, particularly if he or she masters electrical engineering, which is incredibly difficult and requires a good deal of struggle along the way. Among so many examples, a surprising one can be found in a pee-wee football program in a wealthy suburb of New York.

The Massapequa Mustangs regularly win the local travel championship, as well as a “bowl game” in Florida. The program has created several NFL players, such as Gary Baldinger of the Buffalo Bills and Darryl Young of the Washington Redskins. The Mustangs are so good that a 7-3 season is generally thought to be a bad one. How does this mostly white team of kids from well-to-do families win so much? Because on August 1st of every year the Mustangs are at practice while other teams wait until September. They are running plays with no pads; they are ingraining the moves to memory; they are building their muscles. The players and coaches take the hard road, which leads to easier victories on the field.

Getting away from sports, we will discuss how pushing yourself also applies to professional jobs, the military, and what is happening in the brain, body and spirit when we struggle.

Law, Accounting, Medicine, etc.

First year professionals suffer. It’s true. They are pushed very hard, and many quit. However, those who struggle through long hours, diligent work and extra effort find that after just a few years there are incredible opportunities awaiting them.

For doctors, it is a significant salary after residency. Not only are they ready to make the money, but they are also very adept at helping others, even when they are tired. Additionally, they understand their own limitations under duress.

For lawyers and accountants, this comes after passing the CPA and Bar exams. Many find that after only two years of working lower paying jobs they can leave an accounting or law firm and become high-paid executives, or they can stay on as partners earning incredible profits.

Why do companies tend to seek out those who stick with it? It shows character, determination and a willingness to endure the hard road, which will be necessary when the going gets tough.

Military Leadership

Our troops are incredible, but some make it further than others in their careers. And the big difference is usually how they got there. U.S. Marine Corps General Martin Steele is an incredible example of this. Following a youth of living in a desegregated Arkansas town, he enlisted to fight in Vietnam. As a Corporal he enforced that his unit would never speak ill of someone’s race or background, which he was extremely sensitive to from high school sports matches against segregated schools.

Following his deployments, he went to Officer Candidate School to teach. It was very hard, but he endured it, and then became a candidate himself when a Sergeant inspired him to move forward. In spite of starting at the very bottom, General Steele rose higher than almost any officer in the history of the U.S. military when he was promoted to a three-star general. While his struggles did not specifically lead to his promotions, they did build his character, and many say that he created a better Marine Corps.

Struggle and the Brain, Body, and Soul

Struggle does not just build character. It also builds the body and soul. With these changes, the brain also follows, as noted in this Stanford University article. Anyone who has hit a punching bag knows that at first, a shock of pain goes up the arm or concentrates in the hand. Then after some time, one can wail away with little issue. Runners knows that their feet, hips, back, calves, and all the rest can only take so much strain at first, but then they can go farther.

You can succeed in life, but the road to success is not the easy one. It’s the one that requires some struggle. Those who have much and have not struggled often do so because someone else struggled years before.

Meet the Author: Kara Masterson

Kara Masterson is a freelance writer from Utah. She enjoys playing tennis and spending time with her family.

Permanent link to this article: http://www.leadershipgirl.com/pushing-yourself-essential-finding-success/

It’s quite a tragedy knowing the fact that humanity has done its best to ruin our own natural habitat. When we almost reached a point of no return, people started to take notice of the damage we are doing to this planet. It seems that it takes a disaster of monumental proportions for humanity to reach a moment of clarity. The climate change has started to affect us all — hurricanes, floods, earthquakes, polar ice caps melting, some wildlife species at the brink of extinction or already extinct. All of these circumstances are a product of mankind’s recklessness.

However, not all hope is lost. People are starting to notice how bad the situation really is, and how natural resources, renewable energy and green businesses can mend the problem. Luckily, people are becoming aware of these much-needed alternatives, so perhaps we might eventually make some positive changes.

Green Industry

Corporations and businesses that go green are bound to get positive feedback from viewers and customers alike. They have increased sales and better revenues, and they gain more loyal customers and a good reputation. Aside from obvious benefits, green businesses focus on delivering products and making profits while having minimal impact on the environment. They invest additional effort that the work being done minimizes the production of toxic waste and harmful chemicals, waste byproducts and excess materials. It doesn’t take much to go green, yet the benefits to business and the environment are greatly beneficial. It’s not just a trend to follow, but also a public service.

Green is also an Opportunity

Big companies and enterprises are taking notice of the green movement. They are starting to understand the importance of saving the planet and finding the potential investment to support their mission. Regardless of their agenda, now is a really good time for small businesses that are going green to find a suitable investor. Having an eco-friendly big-shot supporting you along the way will help you launch your business. Aside from publicity, having more funds to invest in your green business will be valuable. The year 2017 may as well be the turning point for the good of the environment.

Businesses that Go Green Will Reap the Profits

As mentioned, awareness is growing and consumers are more concerned about where the products come from. This will enable the marketers to show the customers the journey of the products using various advertising methods. Augmented reality can be of good service here, as you can, for example, show the buyers how fresh vegetables come from a farm to their plates. The greener the business is, the more customers it will attract — and we all know that more customers means more profits. There are quite a lot of things you can implement in your business to be greener or potentially more profitable.

The Power of the Sun

Solar power has a bright future indeed. Marching forward at a steady pace, solar power has the greatest potential when it comes to renewable energy. Sadly, mankind has not yet fully utilized the true potential of solar power. However, the value and necessity for renewable energy is growing rapidly. Today’s technology has allowed us to create the best solar panels there are. For small businesses, this is a great investment, and also a great opportunity to cut back on expenses for electric bills. Investing in solar panels can be a potentially lucrative venture. Installing a few in your home or business offices will help you save money. Even though a lot of people are still skeptical about solar power, it will be an interesting trend to keep an eye out for in 2017.

Starting a Green Business

This year will be a great year for startup businesses. With even more people on the lookout for green products and green ways of doing business, green-oriented startups will definitely flourish. For example, opening a restaurant that only serves customers fresh, organic fruits and vegetables or supplying a restaurant with fresh, organic fruits and vegetables would both make great business plans. As mentioned, 2017 will be a year that provides plenty of business ideas and opportunities.

Natural Resources

If we ignore politicians and scientists, who argue over whether global warming is real or not, and instead we look out the window or read the news — we will see that the consequences of climate change and global warming are real. The good news is that instead of waiting for the big-shots to decide, many companies are focusing on utilizing natural resources as renewable energy. This will most likely continue in the future. Wind parks, solar panel farms, and water and air purifiers are some of the available energy-saving resources for protecting the environment. There will be a lot of business opportunities in renewable energy agenda in the near future.

In retrospect, the green industry is on the rise, with people being more concerned about our planet. This will present opportunities for businesses to thrive and have a positive and beneficial impact on the environment.

Meet the Author: Stacey Cooper

Stacey Cooper is a business consultant and a contributor on bizzmarkblog.com. Through her work she tries to provide useful and interesting tips, and fresh news from the world of business, entrepreneurship and marketing.

Permanent link to this article: http://www.leadershipgirl.com/green-business-growing-trends/

When you’re starting out in the real world and looking to make a great living, you’ll need to be better than the rest of those in your field. Although this is easier said than done, becoming a valuable employee at your company — no matter where you work — is possible. Below are several skills you should consider gaining to help boost your value in the eyes of your employer in regards to certifications and pathways.

1. Graphic Design

Pretty much every business will need a graphic designer at one point or another. Whether it’s designing logos, business cards, letterheads, or something else, a graphic designer is always in demand. If you’re an especially talented designer, that makes you that much more valuable, especially for small businesses who might not be able to budget for an expensive freelancer. A company with a talented in-house designer will not be letting them go anytime soon, and a designer with certifications and experience is always a plus.

2. Journeyman Skills

If you have skills as an electrician, carpenter or plumber, you’re instantly sought after. Even if your current profession is nowhere related to those skills, if you prove to be valuable when there is a plumbing or electrical problem, you have earned your keep. This is especially true if a company doesn’t have a lot of money to spend on repairs. This can also save you money when home issues arise.

3. Nursing

Highly skilled nurses are more in demand than ever today. The nursing field has a shortage of qualified nurses which makes them even more valuable to companies and clinics. If you’re considering going into the nursing field, then you may want to consider getting a Master’s of Science in nursing online. Earning your degree online will make it easier for you to pursue other goals while you go to school. When you’re finished, you can look forward to a lucrative career in the medical field.

4. Sales and Marketing

Understanding the basics of marketing and sales can get your foot in the door at some places, but having a degree in any one of these areas will set you above the rest. Those who understand marketing and are gifted at sales become crucial assets to a company. These people are the ones that bring in the dollars and keep the company above water. If you’re one of these people who the company relies on to make sales and bring in customers, you’ll have a bargaining chip that you can use if your company hits troubled waters.

There are many more pathways you can take to prove your worth, but the above areas are some of the most useful. Understanding the basics of just one of these will set you apart, and you could have much more career potential than your coworkers.

Meet the Author: Dixie Somers

Dixie Somers is a freelance writer who loves writing for business, finance, and those with an entrepreneurial spirit. She lives in Arizona with her husband and three beautiful daughters.

Permanent link to this article: http://www.leadershipgirl.com/4-skills-invaluable-asset/

Education is the key to the futures of your workers and the company in general. Workers who educate themselves are able to think more critically and increase their performance rates. When they perform better, they contribute to the growing success of your business. There are many reasons why education is an important asset to have in the workplace.

Employers Promote Continuing Education

Continuing education is a common term in the workplace. Continuing education in the workplace is essential to success for many reasons. Many professionals can only keep their licenses by taking continuing education courses. Even though they have graduated and are no longer enrolled in school, they retake certain courses to stay up to date in their industry. Nurses retake certain science courses to refresh their memory about parts of the human body. Licensed professionals who apply for renewal must retake classes in fields such as management, marketing and math. Many courses are provided online for free or at regular cost.

Education Ties into Financial Security

Keeping your employees informed means keeping the company safe. Many e-commerce companies are involved in the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS), which is designed to protect credit cardholders’ information. There is no use being a part of the system if your employees are not fully trained in its practices. Whether you hire cashiers or accountants, order that they undergo quality PCI-DSS training. The main purpose is to protect sensitive credit card information that passes through the data system. When it is time for an audit, know that your employees understand the main compliance requirements without any concerns.

Employees are Made More Aware

With education, employees are made more aware of the competitive world in which they live. Many employers do not consider job applicants who do not meet certain educational standards. When they hand out promotions, they tend to favor workers who are better qualified with more credentials. Gaining skills is the only way to move forward in the workforce. Education is a boost to the resumes of all working individuals. They are better able to do their jobs and have more opportunities open up for them.

When workers think about improving their skills, they dread the thought of going back to school. Employers should remind them of the many benefits associated with education, such as improved work performances and advancements to higher positions. In the end, maintain the efforts to improve your workers’ skills and create good, long-lasting results for your business.

Meet the Author: Kara Masterson

Kara Masterson is a freelance writer from Utah. She enjoys playing tennis and spending time with her family.

Permanent link to this article: http://www.leadershipgirl.com/employee-education-importance-improving-skills/

It often seems like women in business have a hard time getting ahead. As much as we would like to believe that there is equal treatment of women in the workplace and in entrepreneurship, women often get looked over for opportunities like promotion in favor of men. We have to work just a little bit harder to show that we are more qualified and more driven.

There are several things you can do to pad your resume and add to your overall knowledge in ways that are bound to make you stand out and get you the opportunities you want. No matter what career path you are trying to get ahead in, this guide will help you on your way.

Make sure you are educated

While it can be argued whether real work value lies in education or experience, nearly every person with hiring and opportunity-giving power is going to be looking at your education. This is why, according to Arizona State University, power in the workplace can be gained through education. When comparing your experience with that of someone with similar experience, your education could be the thing that tips you over the scale when the choice is ultimately made.

Being more educated is also going to help any woman who is looking to spearhead her own business. You will have critical thinking skills and practical knowledge to apply to your ventures, something that others may be lacking. It’s nice to have an idea, but without the know-how to initially back it up, the process for getting your business started is going to take much longer than it needs to. Opportunities in entrepreneurship wait for no person, so the faster you can get started, the better your odds are of being successful.

Keep up with technology

Technology is so prevalent these days that it’s being used and integrated into every aspect of our lives. With things like cloud-based data, technology is changing the way we do business. And you no longer have to be in a STEM field to have a need for keeping up with the ever changing technology trends. Knowing your technology stuff will help you to make innovations in your workplace by integrating technology that will allow your company to thrive, and set you out above the rest.

If you are starting your own business, you definitely need to know your stuff. Technology has changed the way we pay for goods, and if you don’t know the various payment methods people are using these days, you may miss out on some sales. You also need to know how to use the internet and social media to advertise your business. With DVR and streaming services, a paid advertisement on TV is no longer an effective method for reaching an audience. A creative and well executed social media campaign is much more effective at reaching people these days, especially younger people who are new consumers.

Be a Thought Leader

Ultimately, the thing that is going to make you stand out and be successful is to be a thought leader. It combines education and keeping up with trends, making you the best and most knowledgeable in your field or position. Using this knowledge with a little inventive and critical thought, you will no doubt be looked to for information and guidance by your peers and be spotlighted for promotion and opportunity.

Entrepreneurs as thought leaders are what make the difference between mildly successful and wildly successful. Take these five inspirational women leaders who are killing it with their businesses. They took their knowledge and combined it with their passions and beliefs and created viable businesses that have been very successful.

We may have to work just a little harder, but there is no reason why women can’t make it to the top of our chosen career paths. With education, technological knowledge and becoming a thought leader in your industry, you can get ahead and lead the way.

Meet the Author: Mila Sanchez

Mila Sanchez is a writer with a BA in English Linguistics living in beautiful Boise, ID. Her ambitions include traveling the world, studying languages and taking pictures of her dog, Baymax. Connect with her on Twitter and Instagram!

Permanent link to this article: http://www.leadershipgirl.com/3-tips-get-ahead-your-career/

Many of us aren’t sure what we want to do for the rest of our lives. But one thing anyone can do to make this choice a little easier is to take a personality test that matches standard personality types up with careers that suit them best. In fact, controversial as it might be, some companies have applicants take personality tests during the interview process to further determine whether or not that individual would be a good fit for the company and position. The fact of the matter is that personality tests can be a very good tool when thinking about a career to pursue.

How They Work

Most personality tests that measure your career aptitude use the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, which identifies and mixes eight different personality indicators in combinations of four for a total of sixteen possible personality types. There are other approaches, but Myers-Briggs is by far the most common. Questions in these tests usually revolve around what you like or prefer to do — for example, whether you prefer working alone or in groups. Another take is the Caliper Profile, which asks test-takers to select viewpoints from a list of statements that best matches their opinion.

Why Personality Tests Are Helpful

These tests take into account your viewpoints and preferences and match you up with careers based on what you display an aptitude for. They take into account typical duties of employees in each field and the traits that people who thrive in them need to have. For example, if you exhibit both caring and managerial qualities, you might be a good fit for an online master’s in healthcare administration. Because there are different types of tests that measure personality differently, taking multiple tests and determining patterns in your results will result in the most accurate profile.

You Might Have to Take a Test Anyway

Knowing about and having a good idea of the various personality tests that employers use puts you in a good spot if you ever need to take the tests yourself during the application process. But definitely don’t lie in order to manipulate the results to get the job — instead, be confident that you can pass any personality test potential employers might throw at you because you’ve already taken tests that told you you’re perfect for this role.

Remember That a Personality Test is Only One Tool

While career personality tests can be a very helpful tool, they should only ever be one component in a number of factors that lead you to choose a profession. What you enjoy doing, salary, job outlook, and ability are all factors you should be considering beyond what careers a personality test pointed you towards.

If you’re still trying to figure out what you want to do for a career, whether you’re a college student who needs to declare their major or an employee in a job they don’t like, looking into the various personality tests available to determine what careers you might be suited for could end up being a very good idea.

Meet the Author: Anica Oaks

Anica is a professional content and copywriter who graduated from the University of San Francisco. She loves dogs, the ocean and anything outdoor related. She was raised in a big family, so she’s used to putting things to a vote. Also, cartwheels are her specialty. You can connect with Anica here.

Permanent link to this article: http://www.leadershipgirl.com/personality-test-help-choose-career/

There are times when we try to look witty we tend to do unfortunate stuff that makes us look stupid instead. Some people tend to experiment with unusual words and even put on an excellent poker face when speaking, which, based on studies, can blow you up straight in the face.

We have this feeling that we can be successful, that we can make our small ideas big. Those may bring you millions, and eventually, you will get famous because of your innovative ideas. Do you feel this? Do you expect it to happen because you want it? Are you someone who has the guts to push this?

If you answer yes, then that’s good. That’s a powerful trait that a successful entrepreneur should possess. Courage, patience and goal-setting — these are what a successful businessperson should have for him or her to achieve what he or she wants.

No matter how we keep on saying that we should never judge a book by its cover, sadly, we humans still tend to do so, and what’s worse is that it’s becoming one of our bad behaviors.

Unfortunately, not dressing appropriately may give people the impression that you’re somewhat ordinary instead of seeing you as a successful entrepreneur as you are in real life.

So, in this article we will give you tips on how to dress like a boss and get your business partner’s trust and respect.

The demand should depend on the situation

Opening a new business may not require a very formal dress code during office hours, but never underestimate it. There will still be times when you should dress formally. Make blazers, pencil skirts for women, tailor-fit men’s suit, part of your investment. Just make sure you’re not taking a whole day off to find the perfect match of clothes for you to get to work.

Anyway, you can still partner those formal clothes with a soft color blazer or half-lined blazer, and substitute a pair of jeans instead of wearing trousers if you want to have that not-so-formal look.

Choose the best color, not your favorite color

You may look good in any color you wear. But let me ask you one real question… Would you even want to wear a neon orange t-shirt in a closed door meeting with your clients? Would you even risk your reputation just for doing that? No, right?

By choosing the right clothes, you are mainly representing yourself as a well-known entrepreneur. So here’s one great tip for you: Try experimenting with different colors.

Choose colors that would make you look like someone capable enough to make a difference. Darker shades than usual like navy and black show dominance and firmness. Wearing lighter shades of pink, peach and yellow may express friendliness.

Ask for professional help

Wearing a branded suit like Brioni is an excellent opportunity to show people how stylish and smart you are without uttering a single word. But, if you wore something that is too sloppy on your shoulders or something that is too tight-fitting for you that you can’t even stretch the button into its hole, then you’re doing it inappropriately.

That is mainly the reason why successful people hire personal tailors for them to make sure that their sizes are precisely measured. Keep in mind that knowing the right size and wearing tailor-fitted formal clothes would surely make a difference.

If you wear smart attire, wear it intelligently

Surely, wearing a Bluetooth earpiece all the time is not cool. And equipping yourself with a pair of shades at night is not smart either. Be someone who knows the right accessories that would fit. For example, why not try a smartwatch that is not only stylish but would also be helpful in your everyday tasks.

Aside from that, it would also make you look like someone who is not behind when it comes to the latest in modern technology. Smartwatches should not only be smart. They should also be slim and sleek, and may offer you almost everything that a computer can do.

For girls, though, yes it is best to shine bright like a diamond, but you should never take it literally. Avoid dangling earrings and glittery, shimmering jewelry.

Don’t cut costs on your shoes

Don’t fall into the trap of wearing a formal and well-created suit with shoes that do not match it. That is a common mistake; we tend to disregard the shoes we wear because we’re too busy preparing for what to put on top.

Unlike women, this is way easier for men, as they can just pick one pair of shoes that will go with anything they wear. For women, it’s a whole lot different. It is a great challenge to wear an extravagant pair of heels without putting your comfort in jeopardy.

Yes, heels are painful and will make you uncomfortable sometimes, but there is something about heels that boosts women’s confidence.

Some businesswomen may opt for wedges with open toes for better fit and more comfort. The more comfortable it feels, the less pain you’ll feel.

Takeaway

It may be an unspoken rule to wear corporate suits and ties for you to be an official and accomplished entrepreneur. It may still play a vital role in determining your partners’, clients’ and most especially, your co-workers’ respect towards you.

If you want to look like a successful and smart entrepreneur, start acting like one. Do you have anything that you would like to share with us? Your opinion, your personal experiences? We would love to hear from you. Write it down in our comment box!

Meet the Author: Jenny Park

Jenny Park loves fashion and style. She travels around the globe to get ideas and inspirations with the latest trend and craze of fashion in men and women’s clothing. Aside from being an in-style woman, writing is her passion and has also been her first love. Whatever she discovers when she travels, she always writes about and shares with her readers.

Permanent link to this article: http://www.leadershipgirl.com/dress-like-smart-successful-entrepreneur/

Jodi Murphy is a Safety Engineer with a construction/maintenance company in Jacksonville, Florida. After a 20 year career in the Navy as a carpenter, Jodi retired and went to college to earn a Masters in Occupational Safety and Health. She now applies her experience to ensure the health and safety of over 200 workers.

Working Mom Interview Q & A

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Jodi Murphy

1. Do you stay at home, work at home, or work-outside the home?

I work outside the home.

2. How many kids do you have?

I have three children.

3. What’s your go-to dinner during the week? Do you care to share a recipe?

Home made Chicken Pot Pie.

4. What are your best tips for staying sane?

Organization, planning and being flexible.

5. What are your favorite tools for time/household management?

A dry erase board with everyone’s names and schedules on it next to the calendar.

6. Do you have pets? If so, what kind?

No pets.

7. What are your hobbies?

Crafting and camping.

8. What’s on your bucket list?

Visit all 50 states.

9. If you work, what do you do? How did you decide?

Safety Engineer. I retired from 20 years in the Navy and decided to continue working after a short break to earn a degree.

10. If you work, what’s the most rewarding part about it?

Keeping the people I work with safe so they can go home to their families.

11. If you could choose any career, what would it be?

Park Ranger/Naturalist

12. If you could tell your younger self something, what would it be?

Don’t be so serious — having fun is good for you.

Permanent link to this article: http://www.leadershipgirl.com/working-mom-interview-jodi-murphy/

Do I want a job that brings me happiness or a big paycheck? It’s a question we all must ask ourselves at some point, but it’s not one that often brings about good answers or results.

Ideally, a job that can do both would be great, but in today’s economy, getting a job in the first place is an accomplishment. The choice is ultimately up to you, just make sure that it’s one with which you will be satisfied when you are looking back on your life.

What is Success?

Everyone’s personal definition of success changes depending on their values, yet in America, there seems to be a connection between success and wealth. Merriam-Webster defines success as “getting or achieving wealth, respect, or fame.” While financial success might seem like the mainstream American goal, individuals are no longer associating their success with money.

Surprisingly, most Americans believe success is associated more with happiness than power, possessions or prestige. In fact, according to the “Success Project Survey” performed by Strayer University, 90% of Americans associate success with happiness, and 60% said success is loving what you do for a living. It looks like Webster is going to have to update its definition.

Success is so much more than being fiscally wealthy, and about 90% of Americans would agree. It’s difficult to pinpoint just one definition of success since everyone has his or her own unique experience and personal view. But if I was to suggest an updated definition to Webster that can mold to each person, it would be “finding happiness through your endeavors.” So no matter what you set out to do, if your accomplishment leads to happiness, then you have found success.

But what if your accomplishment is to get rich? A common goal for many, but I think it is important to debunk the myth of money buying happiness.

How Much Happiness can Money Actually Buy?

Now I know what you’re thinking — it’s a lot easier to be happy with money. And to some extent, this is true. However, it is more accurate to say that money decreases sadness instead of creating happiness.

According to a thorough study, there’s somewhat of a magic number when it comes to money and happiness. The study concluded that an income beyond $75,000 a year does nothing for happiness, enjoyment, sadness, or stress, but you have to reach that point. Basically, money can help take away the misery that comes with financial stresses, giving you a greater sense of control and opportunity. But, once you exceed the financial level of no stress (which is $75,000/year, according to the study), money can no longer buy a sustainable happiness. Money is a tool better used to reduce sadness. So what can increase happiness?

The Big Picture

So ultimately, the choice is up to you whether you want a career that brings more money or more happiness. Of course the dream is to go to work and do the things you love while knowing you are paid well. There will be some give and take here, but I believe that you should be constantly taking little steps toward a life where you are doing something you love. As you can see, money alone is not going to bring you happiness that will last throughout your life. For that, you will need personal fulfillment.

You can find fulfillment in a number of ways, and as I said before, each person will have their own version of personal success. The worth you feel being in a family, the love you can share with a person, the companionship of a pet, the joy of helping those in need, or the happiness you receive from doing work you are passionate about can bring you happiness that will last over a lifetime. Now that is worth so much more than money. But, making a lot of money to give you the best possible option for all of the above isn’t too bad either!

Meet the Author: Jason Galaif

Jason Galaif, aka The CPA Exam Guy, is an accounting all-star who saw more of the exam than any prodigy would ever want to — he failed several sections and had a couple of passed exams expire. He now uses his extensive experience and knowledge to help people find the best cpa review course for their needs so they can pass the CPA with as little effort and time as possible.

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